Human Factors in Engineering

T10 Leadership for Developers: Influencing without Authority

09/09/2025

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Level: Intermediate

Amber Vanderburg

Founder

Pathwayz Group

In today’s fast-paced tech environment, developers are increasingly required to lead projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and influence decisions—all without formal managerial authority. This session equips developers with practical tools to build credibility, foster collaboration, and drive impact, regardless of their title. Through interactive discussions, real-world examples, and actionable frameworks, participants will learn how to effectively influence stakeholders, navigate team dynamics, and lead with confidence. Whether working on a complex project or advocating for innovative solutions, this session empowers developers to become influential leaders in their organizations.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understand the Foundations of Leadership Without Authority: Learn the principles of informal leadership and how to build trust and credibility within a team or organization.
  2. Develop Effective Communication Strategies: Master techniques to articulate ideas clearly, tailor messages to diverse audiences, and confidently manage difficult conversations.
  3. Enhance Collaboration Skills: Explore methods to foster collaboration and inspire team members to align around shared goals, even in matrixed or remote environments.
  4. Gain Tools to Influence Stakeholders: Discover practical frameworks for influencing decisions, managing up, and driving alignment across cross-functional teams.
  5. Apply Leadership Techniques to Real-World Scenarios: Practice strategies through case studies and interactive exercises that mirror common challenges developers face in technical and collaborative settings.

You will learn:

  • Understand the Foundations of Leadership Without Authority: Learn the principles of informal leadership and how to build trust and credibility within a team or organization.
  • Develop Effective Communication Strategies: Master techniques to articulate ideas clearly, tailor messages to diverse audiences, and confidently manage difficult conversations.
  • Apply Leadership Techniques to Real-World Scenarios: Practice strategies through case studies and interactive exercises that mirror common challenges developers face in technical and collaborative settings.